Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Illinois

The Learning & Leadership Grants support educators in enhancing their professional development and leadership skills. With funding up to $5,000, these grants are available for individual educators or groups pursuing high-quality learning experiences such as conferences and seminars. Eligible applicants must be current members of the National Education Association. These grants aim to empower educators to implement innovative practices in their classrooms, ultimately benefiting students and the educational community.

The NIH is announcing a funding opportunity for competitive revisions of ongoing grants to tackle unforeseen public health crises. This Urgent Competitive Revision program aims to facilitate timely responses to emerging health challenges. Once the Notice of Funding Opportunity is published, eligible applications will be directly routed to the appropriate NIH awarding component. Only submissions in response to an Urgent Guide Notice published by an NIH Institute or Center will be accepted.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Shirley Lewis McCune Memorial Scholarship

The Shirley Lewis McCune Memorial Scholarship was established at The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County in memory/honor of Shirley Lewis McCune. Her family chose to honor Shirley, who worked for Columbia Gas for many years and was the first female District Manager for the company here in Southwestern Pennsylvania.

Award Type: Single-Year award. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply in consecutive years provided they maintain full-time enrollment.

Community Foundation of New Jersey

Over our 46-year history, the Community Foundation of New Jersey has collaborated with individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to design charitable funds and implement the philanthropic solutions they want to see in their communities. We leverage $1.17 billion in assets and 1,200 funds to help our partners think boldly and creatively about ways to give.

Scholarship Fund Overview

Beyond a shared commitment to educational opportunity, families establish scholarship funds with a variety of goals and purposes in mind. They may offer traditional scholarships or customize fund awards for alternative scholarships.

Currently, CFNJ administers more than 135 scholarship funds. Our scholarship opportunities run the gamut, from those exclusive to a local high school or geographic region to those supporting specific majors or career pursuits. Last year, we awarded over $2 million in scholarship assistance to 271 scholars.

Applicants may be evaluated on academic performance; extracurricular activities; community involvement; paid or unpaid work; and a statement of their personal aspirations, educational goals, and demonstrated unmet financial need in our scholarship review process.

Alfred J. Speak Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a college-bound, graduating high school senior from the greater Newark area. Preference will be given to students who are affiliated with the Boys and Girls Club of Newark or the First Presbyterian Church (located on Broad Street in Newark). Applicants will be evaluated on academic performance, extracurricular activities, community service, work (paid or unpaid), and unmet financial need.

Community Foundation of New Jersey

Over our 46-year history, the Community Foundation of New Jersey has collaborated with individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to design charitable funds and implement the philanthropic solutions they want to see in their communities. We leverage $1.17 billion in assets and 1,200 funds to help our partners think boldly and creatively about ways to give.

Scholarship Fund Overview

Beyond a shared commitment to educational opportunity, families establish scholarship funds with a variety of goals and purposes in mind. They may offer traditional scholarships or customize fund awards for alternative scholarships.

Currently, CFNJ administers more than 135 scholarship funds. Our scholarship opportunities run the gamut, from those exclusive to a local high school or geographic region to those supporting specific majors or career pursuits. Last year, we awarded over $2 million in scholarship assistance to 271 scholars.

Applicants may be evaluated on academic performance; extracurricular activities; community involvement; paid or unpaid work; and a statement of their personal aspirations, educational goals, and demonstrated unmet financial need in our scholarship review process.

Bego Scholarship

Preference for this scholarship will be given to students who are from recently immigrated families and are U.S. residents, naturalized citizens, or first-generation U.S. citizens. The candidate must be a resident from New Jersey, New York, or Pennsylvania. They also must have been accepted to, have applied for, or plan to attend an accredited four-year college. Applicants will be evaluated based on academic performance, extracurricular activities, community service, work (paid or unpaid), and unmet financial need.

Community Foundation of New Jersey

Over our 46-year history, the Community Foundation of New Jersey has collaborated with individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to design charitable funds and implement the philanthropic solutions they want to see in their communities. We leverage $1.17 billion in assets and 1,200 funds to help our partners think boldly and creatively about ways to give.

Scholarship Fund Overview

Beyond a shared commitment to educational opportunity, families establish scholarship funds with a variety of goals and purposes in mind. They may offer traditional scholarships or customize fund awards for alternative scholarships.

Currently, CFNJ administers more than 135 scholarship funds. Our scholarship opportunities run the gamut, from those exclusive to a local high school or geographic region to those supporting specific majors or career pursuits. Last year, we awarded over $2 million in scholarship assistance to 271 scholars.

Applicants may be evaluated on academic performance; extracurricular activities; community involvement; paid or unpaid work; and a statement of their personal aspirations, educational goals, and demonstrated unmet financial need in our scholarship review process.

Dominique Lisa Pandolfo Scholarship

Applicants for this scholarship must be a female senior who is graduating from a New Jersey high school and a resident of Bergen or Hudson counties. The student must demonstrate outstanding personal character and leadership qualities and have been accepted to an accredited four-year college or university within the United States. Applicants are not necessarily required to be the top in the class, but must show outstanding potential, merit, and/or improvement. Scholarships are based on merit and unmet financial need.

Community Foundation of New Jersey

Over our 46-year history, the Community Foundation of New Jersey has collaborated with individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to design charitable funds and implement the philanthropic solutions they want to see in their communities. We leverage $1.17 billion in assets and 1,200 funds to help our partners think boldly and creatively about ways to give.

Scholarship Fund Overview

Beyond a shared commitment to educational opportunity, families establish scholarship funds with a variety of goals and purposes in mind. They may offer traditional scholarships or customize fund awards for alternative scholarships.

Currently, CFNJ administers more than 135 scholarship funds. Our scholarship opportunities run the gamut, from those exclusive to a local high school or geographic region to those supporting specific majors or career pursuits. Last year, we awarded over $2 million in scholarship assistance to 271 scholars.

Applicants may be evaluated on academic performance; extracurricular activities; community involvement; paid or unpaid work; and a statement of their personal aspirations, educational goals, and demonstrated unmet financial need in our scholarship review process.

Dr. Crosby Copeland, Jr. Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a college-bound Black/African male who is a graduating high school senior from Trenton Public Schools. Students will have achieved a cumulative 2.7 GPA or better, as well as demonstrated community involvement and unmet financial need.

Community Foundation of New Jersey

Over our 46-year history, the Community Foundation of New Jersey has collaborated with individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to design charitable funds and implement the philanthropic solutions they want to see in their communities. We leverage $1.17 billion in assets and 1,200 funds to help our partners think boldly and creatively about ways to give.

Scholarship Fund Overview

Beyond a shared commitment to educational opportunity, families establish scholarship funds with a variety of goals and purposes in mind. They may offer traditional scholarships or customize fund awards for alternative scholarships.

Currently, CFNJ administers more than 135 scholarship funds. Our scholarship opportunities run the gamut, from those exclusive to a local high school or geographic region to those supporting specific majors or career pursuits. Last year, we awarded over $2 million in scholarship assistance to 271 scholars.

Applicants may be evaluated on academic performance; extracurricular activities; community involvement; paid or unpaid work; and a statement of their personal aspirations, educational goals, and demonstrated unmet financial need in our scholarship review process.

Elizabeth Loudenslager Clark Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a college-bound, female graduating high school senior who is a resident of Camden, Gloucester, Salem, Cumberland, or Cape May counties. Scholarships are based on unmet financial need and merit.

The Jack Miller Center Fellowships at the Newberry Library support scholars advancing the understanding of America's founding principles and history. Open to postdoctoral scholars and PhD candidates, these short-term fellowships provide a stipend of $3,000 per month for research on specific collection items. Applications are encouraged from scholars of all nationalities, including those in the Chicago metropolitan area, fostering a diverse academic community committed to exploring America's historical narratives.

The Robotic Thoracic Surgery Access Award, funded by The Thoracic Surgery Foundation, supports underrepresented general thoracic surgeons and cardiothoracic surgery residents in training. This award aims to develop robotic surgical practices through mentorship and training opportunities, providing up to $10,000 for travel expenses. Eligible applicants must demonstrate significant experience in general thoracic surgery and have access to the DaVinci robotic system. This initiative fosters diversity and accessibility in advanced surgical education.

The Shawn Carter Scholarship Fund (SCSF) supports motivated individuals in need by providing financial assistance for education. Aimed at underserved youth and young adults, the SCSF helps cover tuition and related expenses, ensuring access to higher education. Eligible candidates include high school seniors, GED holders, and undergraduate students with a minimum GPA of 2.0. The program encourages community service, fostering a spirit of giving back among its scholars.

The Urology Care Foundation Bridge Award, supported by Dornier MedTech, aims to assist established urology researchers facing financial challenges. It provides up to $60,000 over a 12-month period to sustain vital urologic projects at risk due to funding gaps or setbacks. This unrestricted funding targets independent researchers who are no longer under formal mentorship, ensuring that those actively engaged in research receive timely support to maintain their competitiveness in the field.

Eagles Soar Scholarship Fund

Tribute:

The scholarship was established by the Golden Eagle Club, Inc. in 2021. It is comprised of graduates of Hokes Bluff High School that have been out of school for 50 plus years. The award is made possible by donations and proceeds of a wind turbine in Texas via 1951 Hokes Bluff graduate, Mr. Don Street.

Award:

The scholarship benefits individuals pursuing a certificate, associate's degree, bachelor’s degree, or a State of Alabama-approved workforce training program. This one-time award is for either part-time or full-time enrolled students to attend any accredited institution of higher learning in the United States.

The Community Foundation will project and allocate the assets available for scholarship awards depending on the Fund's annual income. This Scholarship is strictly funded based on available assets. The award is renewable and may include tuition, institutional housing, books, and fees. Due to the renewable nature of the Fund, it may not be available on an annual basis. 

The Bigglesworth Family Foundation's Legal Services Program supports innovative projects aimed at enhancing legal aid effectiveness. Originating post-2008 financial crisis, this initiative helps non-profits combat poverty through legal assistance, targeting both individual organizations and the broader sector. Grants include I&R projects for testing new models and sector support for organizations providing technical assistance. Eligibility is primarily for 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public entities, with specific limitations on budget sizes and project types.

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Cascade and Chelan School Districts ELL Scholarship

The Cascade and Chelan School Districts ELL (English as a second language) Scholarship provides financial support for students who have passed the Washington Language Proficiency Test (WLPT) and are pursuing further education.

The Cat Enrichment Grant, offered by the Petfinder Foundation, provides funding ranging from $100 to $1000 to enhance the well-being of adoptable cats. Grants are awarded monthly until funds are depleted, supporting initiatives like interactive activities and safe outdoor experiences. This program aims to ensure that every cat remains happy and healthy while waiting for a forever home, ultimately increasing their chances of adoption.

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Cathryn "Kate" George Frechen Scholarship

The Cathryn “Kate” Goerge Frechen Scholarship Fund was established in 1999 by Kay Sparks, niece of Cathryn “Kate” Goerge Frechen in her aunt’s memory. This scholarship supports graduating seniors from Pewamo-Westphalia Community Schools seeking further education in an accredited educational program in the US. The committee seeks to award a promising student who demonstrates financial need and potential scholastic ability (not necessarily demonstrated solely by grades).

Hydro Flask's Parks for All Grants offer product donations to U.S. non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to enhancing public green spaces and recreational areas. Since its founding in 2009, Hydro Flask has supported initiatives that promote inclusivity and active lifestyles. Organizations can apply for donations in specified quantities, with applications reviewed in January and notifications sent in February. This initiative aims to foster healthier and happier communities through improved access to parks.

The Paul B. Beeson Emerging Leaders Career Development Award in Aging (K76)

The National Institute on Aging (NIA), The John A. Hartford Foundation, and the National Institute on Neurological Disorders and Strokes (NINDS) are collaborating on this initiative to develop of a cadre of talented scientists prepared and willing to take an active leadership role in transformative change that will lead to improved health care outcomes.

Emerging leaders are clinically trained (primarily physician) early-stage investigators who have begun to establish research careers and have shown signs of leadership potential who will use this award to further develop the tools, skills and resources to have a significant impact in their field of expertise. 

The National Institute on Aging is pursuing this initiative to recruit talented new investigators who have begun to establish research programs and through this award will be ready to assume leadership roles in their field of expertise and well poised to change theory, practice and health outcomes related to the health of older individuals. Unlike other mentored K awards candidates for this award must have received competitively awarded research support as a PD/PI at the faculty level and have had prior leadership responsibilities in the clinical or research domain.

It is anticipated that seven to ten awards will be granted in 2017, up to 5 years of funding limited to $225,000 in direct costs per year. 

The Voya Unsung Heroes Awards Program supports educators with innovative class projects that enhance student learning. Annually, 50 selected educators receive $2,000 each, with three top awards of $5,000, $10,000, and $25,000. This initiative, backed by Voya Financial, aims to empower teachers in accredited K-12 schools across the U.S. to transform their ideas into impactful educational experiences, fostering creativity and engagement in the classroom.

Community Foundation for Northern Virginia

Founded in 1978, the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia is a tax-exempt trusted public charity that advances equity through philanthropy and community leadership. Its work is guided by a strategic plan that advances four key priorities for the region:

• Social and Economic Mobility
• Opportunities for All
• Inclusive Systems of Economic Growth
• Community Resilience

Booz Allen Hamilton Vision Scholarship Fund

In keeping with its commitment to contribute to the excellence of the future work force, Booz Allen Hamilton has established the Vision Scholarship Program. Under this program, legal dependent children of Booz Allen Hamilton employees located anywhere around the world who are pursuing an undergraduate college degree can apply for a scholarship to help defray their tuition expenses. Historically, the Vision Scholarship has been awarded to students who are at the top of their class academically and have a high level of engagement in extracurricular and community activities.

 The scholarship is renewable for up to four years of undergraduate education.

The Jane Coffin Childs Memorial Fund for Medical Research (JCC Fund) Fellowship supports exceptional postdoctoral fellows pursuing biomedical research to enhance human health. Established in 1937, it honors Jane Coffin Childs and offers three years of salary support, currently set at $72,000 for Year 1, $74,000 for Year 2, and $76,000 for Year 3. This prestigious fellowship fosters essential research in cancer and other diseases, promoting advancements in medical science across various countries.

Archaeological Institute of America

The AIA is North America's largest and oldest nonprofit organization dedicated to archaeology. The Institute advances awareness, education, fieldwork, preservation, publication, and research of archaeological sites and cultural heritage throughout the world. 

Grants & Awards

The AIA’s mission includes supporting and promoting archaeological research and its dissemination. To that end, the AIA offers a variety of scholarships, fellowships, and grants for excavation, research, publication, and site preservation.

Each year, the Institute also presents a number of awards to archaeologists, educators, authors, and others whose work has had a positive impact on the field of archaeology.

Anna Marguerite McCann Award for Fieldwork Reports

In keeping with the Code of Ethics of the AIA, which emphasizes the need for archaeologists to publish field research, the Anna Marguerite McCann Award for Fieldwork Reports recognizes an outstanding monograph that presents results from an archaeological field project (e.g. excavation and/or survey), as recommended by the Committee, in time for presentation of the award at the Annual Meeting of the Institute. Authors/editors of successful nominations must join the AIA as a member, if they are not already one, once they receive the award. For multi-authored or multi-edited volumes, this requirement applies only to the primary author/primary editor/principal investigator.

AIA members are encouraged to suggest publications worthy of the award by filling out the Nomination Form. Authors and publishers may also bring their books to the committee’s attention by filling out the Nomination Form and sending an electronic copy (eBook or PDF) for distribution to the committee. Publishers should nominate no more than two (2) books per year and should ensure that the books meet the criteria of the award. Books may be submitted for the award only once, and should not be re-submitted unless specifically requested by the committee.

The Neal Foundation Trust Grant supports organizations dedicated to the humane treatment of animals. With a focus on local community projects, the foundation funds initiatives aimed at reducing pet overpopulation and alleviating animal suffering. Eligible programs include spay/neuter services, fostering, and humane education. The foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate significant local impact, ensuring a compassionate approach to addressing the needs of abandoned and neglected animals.

Ava’s Grace Scholarship, founded in 2010, provides vital educational support to students with incarcerated parents or caregivers in Missouri and parts of Illinois. Offering scholarships up to $5,000 annually, it renews through graduation. This initiative promotes hope and community, transforming lives through education. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, while also planning to pursue an accredited degree. This program, part of The Scholarship Foundation of St. Louis, aims to foster a brighter future.

The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History offers $3000 short-term research fellowships for doctoral candidates, faculty, and independent scholars in American history. Founded in 1994, this nonprofit enhances history education through diverse programs in all 50 states, providing access to over 60,000 historical documents. The fellowships support research at New York City archives, fostering scholarship and recognition by esteemed organizations, ultimately benefiting thousands of teachers and millions of students.

The Adele Hast Fellowship in American History, offered by The Newberry Library, supports scholars working on projects related to American history, particularly those with a specific need for the Newberry's extensive collections. This short-term fellowship provides a stipend of $3,000 per month for a duration of one month. Open to postdoctoral scholars and PhD candidates, it encourages research that contributes to a deeper understanding of American history and its impacts.